The first record of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus Hermann 1779) in the marine coast of the Gaza Strip, Palestine

Abstract

During at least three days, extending from May 31 to June 2, 2023, a specimen of the Mediterranean Monk Seal (Monachus monachus Hermann, 1779) appeared for the first time in the coastal waters and on the shores of the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The current modest study aimed to identify this rare event through field and media observations. The specimen has appeared in three locations along the coast of the Gaza Strip. The information obtained from Gazan fishermen indicated that it is about two meters long, in good health, fast moving and swimming. Despite the widespread controversy about the identity of the specimen, is it the "Yulia" seal that appeared on Jaffa beach in central Palestine in May 2023, or another specimen subject to an international experiment as claimed by the General Directorate of Fisheries at the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture, Gazans showed good protection for the seal, which made it pass safely during its tour in the marine environment of the Gaza Strip. In conclusion, given the many clues collected by the author, it is closer to believing the Israeli version that the seal of the Gaza Strip is the same "Yulia" that appeared in Jaffa and some coastal cities in central Palestine. The care and protection with which the seals were received along the Palestinian coast extending from Lebanon in the north to Egypt in the south must be applied to all marine creatures, especially those that are threatened and endangered.